And what you buddy did with the 172 could be something I can see myself doing once I bankroll myself a little. I plan to keep flying and keep my CFI certs current.

As of right now, I just dont see the benefits behind going 121 right now. One argument could be jumpseat/CASS/ID90 privlidges, but with the pay I stand to get right now, I can easily just buy the ticket and not have it hurt my wallet.

I ask this in all sincerity...right now, where is the motivation behind an airline career? Anyone?